Lives of Meaning and Joy Still Possible After Dementia Diagnosis
Experts say that individuals can still lead lives of meaning and joy after being diagnosed with dementia.
Dementia Friendly Park Rapids held its 4th annual summit, where participants heard from a storyteller and viewed a play called "The Remember Project". A panel of people living with dementia also shared their experiences and how they found encouragement to live with dignity.
Principles for Living with Dementia
Michelle Daniel, CEO of the Eden Alternative, discussed her organization's 10 principles for living lives of meaning and empowerment after a dementia diagnosis. These principles include:
- Three antidotes: connection to combat loneliness, purpose to combat helplessness, and spontaneity and variety to combat boredom
- The practice of "care partnering", where the caregiver and person with dementia work together, recognizing the individual's autonomy and choices
Their choices matter, they are still a person.
Author's summary: Experts share principles for living with dementia.